1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 745 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Kia Optima (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Porsche | Kia |
| Model | 356 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 838 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 65 L |
